to enlighten the underprivileged with an intervention process aimed at holistic development, ensuring successful integration and participation in the mainstream of society.
>> Personal development of the child
>> Community-based programs involving the child and family
>> Public awareness of the plight of the ragpicking child
>> Increased accountability of parents to the child
>> Governmental and non-governmental support for the people
Initiated in the 1970's as a non-governmental organization, REDS sought to aid street children who survived by waste picking. In 1984, with a focus on child welfare, REDS then began providing food, clothing, and shelter for its contacts. Gradually, they acquired knowledge of the city's waste recovery and recycling programs, and experimented with a wastepaper initiative. Through these venues, REDS came to understand the importance of intervening in existing social networks and of creating bonds of trust and reciprocity with its contacts.In 1992, the Marianists (Society of Mary) assumed responsibility and administration of REDS from the Archdiocese of Bangalore. Over time, REDS has developed from a shelter based welfare system to that of a dynamic, street-based development process; both community based with preventative intervention and street-based with curative and integration methodologies.Expanding its boundaries, the Marianists began their work in northern India in 1997. Serving the numerous children and families of Ranchi, Jharkhand who survive by coal and waste picking. REDS seeks to break the cycle of poverty that exists. Recognizing the root of the problem has been the key to each program REDS has developed.Offering counseling and shelter, but no solid venues to equip its children with the skills necessary for sustainability, REDS then had a vision of a training center. In 1998, this vision was realized. The Deepahalli Skill Training Center provides teenage boys with the basic skills necessary for both regular employment and a proper place within the mainstream society.Through a small group of committed and caring employees, REDS has emerged with the understanding that it is important to work not for ragpicking children, but with them. Expanding its former mission of working with ragpicking children, REDS now reaches out to young girls, who are working as domestic servants, by teaching them a skill that will create for them a brighter future. We reach women with our Self Help Groups, teaching them how to support their families. The uneducated and dropouts are supported through our outreach and formal school programs. Until we reach our goal, REDS will continue to work to improve the well-being and quality of life of India's poor. Richmond Town :: Bangalore 560 025 :: Karnataka, India